A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thessaloniki vs. Kitzbuhel for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a historic, vibrant, and high energy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a adventure-filled, world-class, and breathtaking ski resort. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping.

Thessaloniki and Kitzbuhel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

Both Kitzbuhel and Thessaloniki have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Thessaloniki is better known for its museums, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Kitzbuhel is more popular for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Thessaloniki is well known for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Kitzbuhel is well known for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities.

How is Thessaloniki different from Kitzbuhel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kitzbuhel and Thessaloniki. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel Better for Skiing?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Thessaloniki is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Kitzbuhel should be on your list. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

Thessaloniki is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Thessaloniki is great for its historical sights. However, Kitzbuhel is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Thessaloniki offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

Kitzbuhel offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

Is the Food Better in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Kitzbuhel both to be high quality destinations.

Thessaloniki has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

Dining out in Kitzbuhel is an experience not to be missed. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Both Thessaloniki and Kitzbuhel have high quality vibes after the sun sets.

Thessaloniki has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

The people in Kitzbuhel know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.


Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Thessaloniki is adequate for the beache. However, Kitzbuhel is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Thessaloniki. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Kitzbuhel is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel Better for its Old Town?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Kitzbuhel. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel Better for Hiking?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.

People visit Kitzbuhel specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Thessaloniki is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Thessaloniki is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its shopping areas.

Thessaloniki is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Many visitors go to Kitzbuhel to go shopping. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel Better for Families?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kitzbuhel is very family-friendly. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thessaloniki. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel Better for Couples?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Kitzbuhel makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.


Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Thessaloniki and Kitzbuhel are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel Better for Students?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Thessaloniki is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Kitzbuhel is not popular with students.

Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Thessaloniki and Kitzbuhel.

Thessaloniki has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

You'll find some public transit in Kitzbuhel, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.


Is Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki
Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable ski resort. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Thessaloniki Worth Visiting? and Is Kitzbuhel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kitzbuhel or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

Both Thessaloniki and Kitzbuhel have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel than in Thessaloniki. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Thessaloniki, and 4-7 days is enough time in Kitzbuhel.

Families should spend more time in Kitzbuhel than Thessaloniki. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kitzbuhel, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kitzbuhel than Thessaloniki. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kitzbuhel that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thessaloniki 2-4 
    Kitzbuhel 4-7

One day in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Thessaloniki. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Kitzbuhel is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Thessaloniki. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Kitzbuhel is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Thessaloniki. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kitzbuhel might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

Thessaloniki is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Kitzbuhel is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Austria, and The Best Luxury Tours to Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Kitzbuhel or Thessaloniki?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thessaloniki is €134, while the average daily cost in Kitzbuhel is €179. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thessaloniki and Kitzbuhel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thessaloniki 79
    Kitzbuhel 89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thessaloniki 158
    Kitzbuhel 178
Compare Hotels in Thessaloniki and Kitzbuhel

Looking for a hotel in Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thessaloniki


Hotels in Kitzbuhel


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Thessaloniki Hotel Prices and Kitzbuhel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thessaloniki 13
    Kitzbuhel 69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

Also for Thessaloniki, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Private Day Trip to Meteora with Transfer: $428
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $254
  • Private Transfer from Kavala to Sofia (SOF) Airport: $237
  • Transfer from Thessaloniki to Ikos Oceania: $153
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG): Transfer to Thessaloniki city: $142
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG): Transfer to Thessaloniki Port: $142
  • Thessaloniki Cruise Port: Transfer to Thessaloniki city: $142
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Alia Palace Hotel Private Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer to Thessaloniki Airport from Thessaloniki City: $120
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Afitis Boutique Hotel Private Transfer: $109
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Ammon Zeus Hotel : $109
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Sani Resort: $109

Is it cheaper to fly into Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

Prices for flights to both Kitzbuhel and Thessaloniki change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thessaloniki 42
    Kitzbuhel 48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Thessaloniki

For Thessaloniki, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Open Market Food Tour with Tasting: $48
  • Walking Open Market Food Tour and Tasting: $49
  • Cooking & Dining Experience with Greek Family: $63
  • Guided Food Tour: $70
  • Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $71
  • Private Walking Tour Gastronomic Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $87
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $95
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $95
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit and Lunch: $95
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $97
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $97
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market visit and Lunch: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thessaloniki 26
    Kitzbuhel 34

Tours and Activities in Thessaloniki

For Thessaloniki, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 4-Hour Thessaloniki Jewish Heritage Private Guided Tour: $207
  • Archery Odyssey Traditional Archery Experience: $65
  • Best of Private Guided Tour: $218
  • Best of Private Guided Tour: $192
  • Charming pearls of Thessaloniki – Romantic Tour: $153
  • City Sightseeing Thessaloniki Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • Daily Cruise:Discover Thessaloniki in a different way: $1,069
  • Daily Sailing Cruise Olympus Riviera Highlights: $122
  • Day Tour at Royal Tombs of Aigai and Museum of Pella with pickup: $93
  • Dion and Palaios Panteleimon Myth and History Tour: $153
  • Dion-Olympus Private Tour from Thessaloniki: $96
  • Discover Olympus from Paralia in Jeep Safari Shared Tour: $76

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thessaloniki 15
    Kitzbuhel 11

Sample the Local Flavors in Thessaloniki

Also in Thessaloniki, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Friday Night Bar Crawl in Thessaloniki: $25
  • From Pella-Edessa wine tasting: $64
  • Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $81
  • Thessaloniki Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $83
  • Winery Visit with Wine Tasting Experience: $91
  • Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki: $93
  • Thessaloniki to Naoussa, Wine Tasting Tour – Private Day Trip: $207


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thessaloniki and Kitzbuhel, we can see that Kitzbuhel is more expensive. And not only is Thessaloniki much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Thessaloniki would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Thessaloniki and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Kitzbuhel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kitzbuhel than you might in Thessaloniki.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Thessaloniki Expensive? and Is Kitzbuhel Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Kitzbuhel?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Kitzbuhel. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki and Kitzbuhel, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.